Arthur Grisbrook still lives alone, cooks and cleans for himself and even enjoys playing his beloved organ in his flat in Hereford.

He cooks himself a full mixed grill - with steak, gammon, sausages, a fried egg, mushrooms, tomatoes, peas, chips and hash browns - most days.

The former Royal Engineer, from Buckinghamshire, said he is frequently told he looks decades younger than his 10 centuries [sic] and believes his diet - and two nightly glasses of red wine - is to thank for his incredible appearance, despite what doctors say.

The widowed great-granddad-of-three said: 'I eat and drink what I fancy and don't worry about what the so-called 'experts' say.

'I believe in doing things moderately and sensibly. I drink most nights with my meals.

'He's very supportive, undemanding and appreciative. We always love to spend time with him. He's a remarkable man.'

Comment: Centenarians all over the globe more often than not credit their long life to a similar diet, as well as an active social life with family and in the wider community, along with interests which engaged the person in regular physical and mental activities. A significant number of them also smoked tobacco, many continued to do so.